Author: Alex Baddley

Chesterfield Festival of Cricket secured for another five years

Chesterfield will continue to host the BRM Chesterfield Festival of Cricket each summer after a new five-year partnership secures the event’s future until 2031.

The agreement between Derbyshire County Cricket Club and Chesterfield Borough Council ensures the much-loved festival remains a key fixture in the town’s events calendar.

First established through a partnership in 2011, the festival has grown significantly over the past decade, regularly attracting sell-out crowds and expanding its programme to include women’s fixtures alongside the traditional county matches.

Ryan Duckett, Chief Executive of Derbyshire County Cricket Club, said:

“The BRM Chesterfield Festival of Cricket is one of the most popular events of the county cricket summer, not only for our supporters, but for visitors from across the country. We are delighted to have secured its future until at least 2031.

“We have a fantastic relationship with Chesterfield Borough Council and Chesterfield Cricket Club, which we look forward to building on over the next five years.”

In addition to hosting matches at Queen’s Park, the agreement includes providing tickets to schools and coaching sessions to inspire the next generation of cricketers.

Festival of cricket

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said:

“We know that the festival is an annual highlight for many members of our community, and it is fantastic that we have been able to secure this partnership for another five years. Not only does it help attract more people to our borough, which provides a great boost for our local businesses, the partnership also provides a fantastic opportunity for young people to discover a love for the game.”

This latest agreement, approved at Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet meeting in April, marks the fourth five-year partnership since 2011, underlining the long-term success of the event.

The 2026 BRM Chesterfield Festival of Cricket runs until Sunday, 28th June 2026, with a packed programme of fixtures taking place at Queen’s Park.

Highlights still to come include Derbyshire Falcons taking on Gloucestershire in a Women’s Vitality Blast fixture on Saturday, 27 June 2026, with tickets available to claim for free.

The festival will conclude with Derbyshire facing Yorkshire in a sell-out Men’s Vitality Blast match on Sunday, 28th June 2026.

For more information on the BRM Chesterfield Festival of Cricket and other events happening in and around Chesterfield this summer, visit: chesterfield.co.uk/summer


Derbyshire County Cricket Club and Chesterfield Borough Council are two of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Chesterfield Champions celebrate success across apprenticeships, hospitality and education

From a major construction apprentice award win in South Yorkshire, to Derbyshire hotels gaining international recognition in the MICHELIN Guide, and a University of Derby lecturer receiving a national award for innovative teaching, these stories highlight the talent, ambition and success of our Chesterfield Champions.


Dalton Roofing apprentice recognised at South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards

Dalton roofing, Luke Lewis apprentice winner

Dalton Roofing is celebrating success after apprentice Luke Lewis was named Construction Apprentice of the Year at the South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards 2026.

The awards ceremony, held on Thursday, 21st May 2026 at Sheffield United Football Club’s Bramall Lane stadium, brought together apprentices and employers from across our region to celebrate outstanding achievements in skills, training and workforce development.

Dalton Roofing was shortlisted in two categories, with apprentice Luke recognised as Construction Apprentice of the Year and the company also reaching the final in the SME Employer of the Year category.

The award highlights Luke’s commitment to developing his skills and knowledge through his apprenticeship. Described by the company as a talented and ambitious apprentice, Luke has impressed colleagues with his positive attitude, strong work ethic and willingness to learn both in the workplace and at college.

Philip Dalton, Managing Director of Dalton Roofing, said:

“I am so proud of Luke, his hard work and the enthusiasm he brings every day. This is a well-deserved award and recognition of the effort he puts into his apprenticeship. Congratulations, Luke!”

The achievement reflects Dalton Roofing’s ongoing commitment to investing in skills and supporting the next generation of construction professionals. While the company narrowly missed out on the SME Employer of the Year award, the team says being shortlisted was a significant achievement and recognition of its approach to training and development.

Success stories such as Luke’s demonstrate the important role apprenticeships play in helping businesses build skilled workforces, while creating opportunities for individuals to develop rewarding careers within the construction sector.


Casa Hotel and Peak Edge Hotel celebrated by MICHELIN Guide and Midlands hospitality awards

Couple at casa

Casa Hotel and Peak Edge Hotel are celebrating international recognition after being included in the prestigious MICHELIN Guide hotel selection, alongside securing multiple finalist spots at the Midlands Food, Drink & Hospitality Awards 2026.

The globally renowned MICHELIN Guide highlights hotels recognised for their character, service, design and overall guest experience, placing the Derbyshire hotels alongside some of the world’s most respected places to stay.

In addition to the MICHELIN Guide inclusion, both hotels have been shortlisted for a series of major regional awards following a strong year for the business.

Peak Edge Hotel, the luxury four-star hotel on the edge of the Peak District, has been named a finalist in three categories at the Midlands Food, Drink & Hospitality Awards 2026, including Boutique Hotel of the Year, Hotel of the Year, and Gastro Pub of the Year for its 2 AA Rosette Red Lion Restaurant.

Cocina at Casa Hotel in Chesterfield has also been shortlisted for Steakhouse of the Year.

The awards ceremony will take place in Birmingham on Monday, 22nd June 2026, bringing together leading names from across the hospitality sector.

Steve Perez, Owner of Casa Hotels Group, said:

“We are incredibly proud to see both Peak Edge Hotel and Casa Hotel recognised within the MICHELIN Guide hotel selection. To be associated with a globally respected brand like MICHELIN is a fantastic achievement for the whole team and reflects the enormous amount of passion, hard work and care that goes into the guest experience across both hotels every single day.”


Nursing lecturer wins national award for innovative approach

Danielle Dunne, a lecturer in Adult Nursing at the University of Derby,

A University of Derby nursing lecturer who led an innovative emergency simulation to prepare students for real-life crises has won a major national award.

Danielle Dunne, Lecturer in Adult Nursing at the University of Derby, who works across both the Chesterfield and Derby campuses, was named ‘University Educator of the Year’ at the Student Nursing Times Awards 2026 in London.

Danielle was recognised for leading a large-scale major incident simulation based on a ‘rave’ scenario, bringing together students from nursing, journalism, and sound and light engineering to respond to a realistic emergency situation.

The simulation is part of a wider programme of regular events at the University designed to develop students’ critical decision-making skills in a safe but realistic environment. Judges praised Danielle’s work, saying she “had thought of every detail, making her stand out and truly shine.”

They added:

“Danni’s passion, enthusiasm and hard work impressed the judges. Her innovative simulated critical incident ‘The Rave’ allowed students to explore their critical decision-making skills in a safe but realistic environment.”

Speaking about the award win, Danielle said:

“This incident simulation was a fantastic multi-disciplinary event and really brought out the best in our students. It shows how we create opportunities for them to go beyond the classroom and prepare for real-world practice.

“I am incredibly honoured to have won this award, but even more proud of the impact my students are already making.”


Dalton Roofing, Casa Hotel, Peak Edge Hotel and The University of Derby are a few of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home

Chesterfield Champions unite to deliver vital support for local communities

Chesterfield Champions are continuing to make meaningful differences, supporting local hospice care, championing mental health and wellbeing, and raising funds for community causes through a range of initiatives.


Banner Jones renews Sparkle Night Walk support

Banner Jones sponsor Sparkle Night Walk

Banner Jones Solicitors has reaffirmed its commitment to the local community by returning as official medal sponsor for Sparkle Night Walk and taking part in the event for a sixth year.

The Sparkle Night Walk returns on Saturday, 27th June 2026, marking the 11th anniversary of the popular fundraising event, which sees thousands of people walk through Chesterfield in glitter and pink to raise funds for end of life care across North Derbyshire.

Banner Jones staff will once again join the walk, continuing a long-standing involvement that has seen the firm raise more than £4,000 for Ashgate Hospice through previous participation.

Alongside taking part, the firm is continuing its sponsorship of the event medals for a second consecutive year, helping to support the delivery of the event while raising awareness of the hospice’s vital services.

Ashgate Hospice provides free, compassionate care for adults in North Derbyshire living with life-limiting or incurable illnesses, including cancer and neurological conditions. Its specialist teams offer palliative and end of life care, as well as practical and emotional support for patients and their families.

Lynne Pope, Marketing Manager at Banner Jones, said:

“We are proud to continue supporting Ashgate Hospice by sponsoring the Sparkle Night Walk medals for a second year. It’s a cause that means a great deal to many of us, and it’s inspiring to see the community come together year after year to support the incredible work carried out by Ashgate Hospice.

James Branson, Events and Community Fundraising Manager at Ashgate Hospice, added:

“We’re incredibly grateful to Banner Jones for returning as our medal sponsor for the 2026 Sparkle Night Walk, as well as taking part in the event once again. Their continued generosity and support will help fund care for the people who need us now and in the future.”


OxyClinic highlights community support for men’s mental health

OxyClinic

OxyClinic is highlighting the importance of community connection and mental wellbeing through its support for Chesterfield-based charity Andy’s Man Club, which provides free peer-to-peer support groups for men across the UK.

The organisation’s Operations Manager, Gary West, also volunteers as a facilitator for Andy’s Man Club in Chesterfield, helping to create a safe and supportive space where men can talk openly about mental health and life’s challenges.

With Men’s Mental Health Week taking place throughout the week (Monday, 15th June to Friday, 21st June) OxyClinic is using the moment to shine a light on the importance of volunteering and community support in improving mental wellbeing and reducing isolation.

Andy’s Man Club provides non-judgmental spaces where men are encouraged to talk openly, helping to break down stigma and remind people they are not alone. OxyClinic says volunteering and supporting organisations like this can have a positive impact not only on those receiving support, but also on those giving their time, with benefits including improved confidence, purpose and social connection.

Beth Adamson, Marketing and Partnerships Manager at OxyClinic, said:

“True wellbeing comes from taking a holistic approach, and human connection remains one of the most powerful tools we have. Whether it’s checking in on a friend, attending a support group, or volunteering time to help others, small actions can have a lasting impact.”


Local hospice and Chesterfield law firm launch Wills Month campaign

BRM team

BRM has partnered with Blythe House Hospice to offer professional Will-writing services throughout July in return for a voluntary donation to the charity.

Funds raised will support Blythe House Hospice’s care for people affected by cancer and other life-limiting illnesses across the High Peak, Hope Valley, Derbyshire Dales, Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire.

As part of the campaign, BRM’s Will-writing experts will be available to individuals and couples looking to put a Will in place. The suggested minimum donation is £75 for a single Will and £150 for a mirror Will.

The initiative continues a long-standing partnership between the two organisations. In 2025, the campaign raised £7,400, contributing to a total of more than £76,000 raised since 2017.

Blythe House Hospice provides a wide range of services to support patients and their families, including Hospice at Home care, an overnight roaming service, therapies, counselling, and specialist nursing.

Rob Woodhead, Executive Director at BRM, said:

“We’re delighted to support Blythe House Hospice through our annual Wills Month once again this year, continuing a partnership that has been running since 2017.

“As a local business, we know many families in our communities who have benefitted from the hospice’s vital services. Their support allows patients to remain at home where possible, while receiving high-quality care.”

Paul Berresford, Executive Director at BRM, added:

“We’re proud to have helped raise more than £76,000 for Blythe House Hospice so far. It shows what can be achieved when our community comes together.

“This campaign provides a valuable opportunity for people to ensure their affairs are in order while also supporting an important local charity.”


Banner Jones Solicitors, OxyClinic and BRM are a few of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home

University of Derby named UK’s top university in 2027 student rankings

The University of Derby has been named UK University of the Year in the 2027 Uni Compare rankings, based on reviews from more than 24,000 students across the country.

The university climbed six places to secure the top position in the 2027 league table, which evaluated 323 institutions across the UK. It also ranked first for employability, second for accommodation and second for course quality.

Building on this success, it is expanding its presence in Chesterfield, with new courses at its St Helena Campus in business, sport and nursing, including foundation year routes, to support local skills and future workforce needs.

The results highlight the institution’s continued commitment to delivering high-quality education and strong career outcomes for students.

A total of 97% of students who submitted reviews said they would recommend the university to a friend, reflecting consistently high levels of student satisfaction.

The Uni Compare rankings are based on independent data and feedback from current and former students, assessing key aspects of university life including accommodation, course quality, employability and social experience. The rankings aim to give prospective students a clear and honest comparison of institutions ahead of starting university.

Professor Kathryn Mitchell, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Derby, said:

“To be named the UK’s best university by students is an exceptional achievement and one we are immensely proud of because it comes directly from those who know us best.

“This recognition demonstrates the value students place on their experience at Derby and the increased social capital they gain. That is one of the strongest endorsements any university can receive.”

The university delivers teaching excellence through an industry-focused approach, with courses ranging from foundation level to postgraduate study and research.

It has further strengthened its links with business and industry through the launch of its Chancellor’s Entrepreneurs’ Club, delivered in collaboration with entrepreneur Theo Paphitis and the university’s Chancellor William Cavendish, Chair of the Devonshire Group. The initiative gives students direct access to influential business leaders and mentors.

Students also benefit from links with leading global organisations, including Google, Amazon, Rolls-Royce, Toyota and the NHS.

To find out more about learning and higher education opportunities in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/skills-and-training-opportunities/


The University of Derby and Devonshire Group are two of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Skills, Stay

Chesterfield housebuilder drives growth with three new Derbyshire developments

Chesterfield-based Stancliffe Homes is continuing its regional growth with three new residential developments in Wingerworth, Bolsover and Darley Dale.

The company based at Markham Vale Environment Centre, which recently secured a prestigious five-star rating from the Home Builders Federation for the second consecutive year, is continuing to invest in high-quality, energy-efficient homes while supporting the growth of communities across our region.

New homes launched in Wingerworth

Stancliffe Homes has officially opened the show home at its Kingswood Park development in Wingerworth. The exclusive scheme comprises 17 stone-built bungalows designed specifically for the over-55s market.

Each home has been built with sustainability in mind, featuring air-source heat pumps, solar PV panels and electric vehicle charging points as standard. The development has already proven highly popular, with all homes reserved before the show home opened.

Lynne Siddons, Sales Manager at Stancliffe Homes, said:

“It’s fantastic to have all our homes on-site reserved before the show home even opened. Bungalows have long been a popular choice for those looking to future-proof their living arrangements. There is evidently a very strong demand for modern, light and highly energy-efficient single-storey homes.”

Major investment in Bolsover

Stancliffe Homes is also playing a key role in the delivery of the Bolsover North masterplan, one of the area’s most significant housing and infrastructure projects.

Working alongside Strata and Persimmon Homes, the developer will deliver 105 of the 547 homes planned as part of the wider scheme.

The project includes 17 acres of public green space, a new town park and land earmarked for a future primary school and care facility, helping to create a sustainable community for future generations.

Sam Jones, Director of Stancliffe Homes, said:

“We feel a strong connection to Bolsover and its future. The district is brimming with potential, and being involved in a project of this scale allows us to contribute to the town’s wider infrastructure while staying true to our design-led approach. This is a pivotal period of growth for us, and we remain focused on delivering homes that both we and the local community can be proud of.”

New development underway in the Derbyshire Dales

Meanwhile, construction has begun on Stancliffe Homes’ latest development, Stonebridge Walk in Darley Dale.

The scheme will feature homes built entirely from natural stone and offer a range of two to five-bedroom properties. Designed to reflect the company’s commitment to quality craftsmanship, the development will combine traditional materials with modern specifications and energy-efficient features.

Supporting sustainable growth

Across all three developments, Stancliffe Homes is continuing its commitment to sustainable housebuilding by incorporating renewable technologies and modern construction methods into its homes.

By delivering highly energy-efficient properties, many of which achieve A-rated EPCs, the Chesterfield-based developer is helping to meet demand for lower-carbon housing while contributing to the growth of communities across Derbyshire.

The latest developments represent another milestone in Stancliffe Homes’ growth story, reinforcing the company’s reputation for delivering high-quality homes while supporting investment and regeneration across the region.

Find more places to live in and around Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

Posted in Development, Home, Stay

How volunteers are shaping Chesterfield’s communities

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Chesterfield Champions celebrate national tourism success at VisitEngland Awards

Two Chesterfield Champions have been recognised among England’s leading tourism businesses after achieving national success at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026.

Peak Edge Hotel and The Tickled Trout were among four tourism businesses and individuals from the Peak District and Derbyshire to receive national awards at the prestigious ceremony, held at Aerospace Bristol on Wednesday, 3rd June, 2026.

Winners from Peak Edge Hotel, Silver winner of the Small Hotel of the Year, at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026, pictured on stage with host Sean Fletcher and Andrew Stokes OBE, England Director, at Aerospace Bristol.

Peak Edge Hotel-VisitBritain-Kevin-Moran-Photography

The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, which have celebrated the very best of England’s tourism industry for more than 35 years, recognise excellence across accommodation, attractions, accessibility, food and drink, visitor experiences and customer service.

Representing the Peak District, Derbyshire and Derby on the national stage, local finalists achieved the following results:

  • Small Hotel of the Year – Silver – Peak Edge Hotel, Chesterfield
  • Pub of the Year – Silver – The Tickled Trout, Barlow
  • Accessible & Inclusive Tourism Award – Gold – Hoe Grange Holidays, Brassington
  • Unsung Hero Award – Silver – Viv Smith, National Stone Centre

All four national finalists secured their place in the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence after winning Gold at the Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards earlier this year.

The success of Peak Edge Hotel and The Tickled Trout highlights the quality of hospitality experiences available in and around Chesterfield, helping to strengthen our town’s reputation as a welcoming destination for visitors and showcasing the strength of the local visitor economy.

Winners from The Tickled Trout, Barlow, Silver winner of the Pub of the Year, at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026, pictured on stage with host Sean Fletcher and Nigel Wilkinson MBE, VisitEngland Advisory Board Member, at Aerospace Bristol.

The Tickled Trout – VisitBritain-Kevin-Moran-Photography

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said:

“To achieve four national awards, including a Gold and three Silvers, is a tremendous accomplishment and a reflection of the outstanding quality, innovation and customer service across the Peak District and Derbyshire.

These results demonstrate the strength and diversity of our visitor economy.”

Steve Perez, owner of Peak Edge Hotel, said:

“We are enormously proud of what the team has achieved. Hospitality is ultimately about people, and this award reflects the dedication, warmth and professionalism our team shows every day. As an independent Derbyshire business, it is particularly special to be representing the Peak District on a national stage and demonstrating the quality of hospitality experiences available here.”

Mark Thurman, Managing Director of Peak Edge Hotel, added:

“This award recognises years of hard work and continual investment in the guest experience. We’ve focused on creating something that feels relaxed, welcoming and authentic, while still delivering exceptional quality. To achieve Silver at a national level is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved.”

The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026 brought together finalists from 21 regional and local tourism competitions, with more than 1,800 tourism businesses entering local awards programmes across the country.

Tourism continues to play a vital role in the regional economy, contributing £2.58 billion annually to the Peak District and Derbyshire and supporting thousands of jobs across the area.

To discover more award-winning places to eat and drink in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/2026/05/50-food-and-drink-businesses-to-try-in-chesterfield/


Peak Edge Hotel and The Tickled Trout are two of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Refurbished Newbold community hub set to bring residents together

The ground-floor community room at Bonsall Court has been refurbished following a three-year lease agreement between Community Development Chesterfield (CDC) and Chesterfield Borough Council, creating a modern space for local activities.

The refurbishment project was led by six apprentices from the council’s housing property services and housing assets teams, giving them valuable hands-on experience while creating a lasting asset for the community.

Working alongside experienced colleagues, apprentices helped redecorate the building, upgrade electrical systems and lighting, install new facilities and modernise the kitchen. Two apprentices also supported the project through co-project management roles, developing skills towards their qualifications.

The team worked alongside specialist contractors to complete key improvements. Ventro installed a new fire alarm system and fire doors, while Dalton Roofing delivered a new roof system, skylights, soffits and fascias. Additional energy-efficiency upgrades included roof insulation and smart panel radiators, helping to reduce energy use and running costs.

The revitalised space will enable CDC to expand its work in Newbold and support more residents. The organisation already delivers initiatives including its Cosy Hub in Grangewood and youth groups in Duckmanton and Poolsbrook.

Councillor Jean Innes, Chesterfield Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, said:

“The completion of the refurbishment is a proud moment for our six talented apprentices who have been involved every step of the way. Through their continued commitment, they have not only gained valuable hands-on experience, but they have also delivered a high-quality space that will have a huge benefit for the local community.

We are also pleased to see so many energy-efficient improvements made as part of the project. This contributes to our commitment to becoming a carbon-neutral borough by 2050, while also reducing energy costs for CDC.”

Bonsal Court

Dan Henman, Chief Executive Officer and Chair of Trustees at Community Development Chesterfield, said:

“This new hub will allow us to expand our work in Newbold and deliver a wide range of activities for children, young people, families and older residents.

“We believe strong communities are built when people have somewhere safe, welcoming and inclusive to come together.”

CDC is now working with residents to develop a programme of activities and services that reflect the needs of our local community.

To discover more community projects and developments taking place across Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/

Residents who would like to share ideas for future activities can contact CDC at info@cdchesterfield.com.


Chesterfield Borough Council and Dalton Roofing are two of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about our Champions network.

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Development, Home

Chesterfield welcomes growing dessert business Rassam’s Creamery

Rassam’s Creamery has opened a new store in Chesterfield, bringing its popular range of desserts, ice creams and sweet treats to our town.

The growing dessert brand officially welcomed customers to its new venue at 359 Sheffield Rd, Whittington Moor, on Friday, 5th June 2026. The first 50 visitors even received a free dessert as part of the launch celebrations.

Originally established in Sheffield, Rassam’s Creamery has built a strong reputation for its family-friendly dining experience and extensive dessert menu, making it a popular choice for a sweet treat.

Visitors can enjoy freshly made waffles, crepes, ice creams and milkshakes, alongside traditional favourites including coconut jam sponge, apple crumble and sticky toffee pudding.

Plus, many of the desserts are even delivered by their robot assistants, where waiting staff out on the floor can quickly serve dishes up. A convenient boost for waiting staff and faster service for customers.

The brand has expanded steadily in recent years, opening multiple stores across Sheffield as well as in Manchester, Liverpool and Kenya.

The opening event attracted a strong response from visitors, with queues forming outside the store as families, young people and dessert lovers came to support the new business.

Chief Financial Officer, Anise Ahmed, Rassam’s Creamery, said:

“The opening evening went really well, and we were very pleased with the turnout. We had queues outside the store, which was amazing to see, and the response from the Chesterfield community was really positive.

Chesterfield is a brilliant town with a strong local community, and we hope the store becomes a popular destination for families, young people and dessert lovers.”

To discover more places to eat and drink in Chesterfield this summer, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/

Posted in Home, Leisure, Stay, Summer, Visiting

New personalised phone case vending machine launches in Chesterfield

A new technology-led retail concept has launched in our town centre, allowing shoppers to create personalised phone cases within minutes at The Pavements Shopping Centre.

The launch of Ink My Case has brought a new retail innovation to the town, enabling customers to design and print custom phone cases while they shop.

Developed by Sheffield-based entrepreneurs through VoltVend Ltd, the vending machine is located at the main entrance of The Pavements, opposite Chesterfield Library. It allows customers to personalise phone cases using their own photos, artwork and designs, which are printed on demand.

Supporting a wide range of Apple and Samsung devices, the concept offers a fast, convenient alternative to traditional personalised products, which are typically ordered online.

The Chesterfield installation is the first Ink My Case vending machine to be introduced, marking the first step in VoltVend Ltd’s plans to expand the concept to shopping centres and retail destinations across the UK.

Gareth Richardson, Director of VoltVend Ltd and Ink My Case, said:

“We created Ink My Case to combine creativity, technology and convenience. While personalised products are often ordered online and delivered days later, our machine allows customers to design and receive their custom phone case in a matter of minutes.

“Launching in Chesterfield is a proud milestone for us and the first step in our plans to expand the concept to shopping centres and retail destinations across the UK.

“We would like to thank The Pavements Shopping Centre for supporting a new local business and giving us the opportunity to introduce this innovative concept to Chesterfield shoppers.”

The launch demonstrates how innovation and technology are enhancing Chesterfield’s retail offer, attracting new concepts and strengthening our town centre’s appeal to visitors and investors.

To explore investment opportunities in Chesterfield, visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

Posted in Business, Development, Home, Leisure, Visiting

Volunteers’ Week celebrates community spirit across Chesterfield

Volunteers’ Week is being celebrated across Chesterfield, with local organisations recognising the vital contribution volunteers make to strengthening communities, supporting services and delivering events.

Chesterfield Champions are highlighting how volunteering continues to play a central role in bringing people together, creating opportunities and supporting community life across the borough.


Building friendships through volunteering at Ashgate Hospice

Harrison Fawbert, Ami Brunyee of Ashgate's Day Services, and Anne Leadbeater.  

A retired teacher and a Sheffield Hallam University student have formed an unexpected friendship while volunteering together at Ashgate Hospice.

Ashgate Hospice is highlighting the important role volunteers play in bringing people together across generations. More than 660 volunteers currently support the hospice across North Derbyshire.

Anne Leadbeater and Harrison Fawbert volunteer side by side in the hospice’s Day Services, supporting patients by serving refreshments, assisting with activities and spending time talking with visitors.

Anne began volunteering following retirement from a career in education across Derbyshire, initially supporting the hospice as a driver before moving into Day Services, where she found a welcoming environment and a renewed sense of purpose.

Harrison, who first became involved while studying fine art at Sheffield Hallam University, now volunteers regularly and has found that the experience has helped build confidence through interacting with patients and visitors, while also shaping his interest in art therapy.

The pair now volunteer together every Friday and have built a strong friendship through their shared time supporting the hospice’s services.

Anne said:

“I needed a purpose. Ashgate just felt so welcoming from the start. There’s such positivity – people expect it to be sad, but it really isn’t.”

Ashgate Hospice continues to encourage people of all ages to consider volunteering, with opportunities available across its retail, patient services, fundraising and community support roles.


Over 1,500 hours of volunteering support Junction Arts events

Junction Arts Volunteers

Arts and community organisation Junction Arts is recognising the contribution of its volunteers, who gave more than 1,500 hours of their time in 2025/26.

The volunteers support a wide range of activities, from major public events such as Chesterfield Children’s Festival and Tapton Lock Festival to behind-the-scenes work, including preparing materials, supporting school workshops, and assisting with fundraising activities.

Junction Arts says its volunteers play a key role not only in delivering events, but in shaping them, bringing insight, lived experience and community connection into its work.

Jemma Burton, Project Manager at Junction Arts, said:

“They don’t just help us run our projects; they shape them.

Our volunteers are one of our most valuable assets at Junction Arts, they make our events and workshops possible but as members of our community themselves and from working closely with our participants, they offer key insights, knowledge and connection.”

Chesterfield Royal Hospital Charity is encouraging people across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire to volunteer and help support patients, families and staff.

As part of National Volunteers’ Week, the charity is recruiting new volunteers to support fundraising activities, events and community engagement initiatives. Volunteers will help the charity fund projects and enhancements that go beyond core NHS services, improving experiences for patients and their loved ones.

Whether people can spare a few hours occasionally or are looking for a more regular commitment, there are a range of opportunities available. Volunteers play an important role in supporting fundraising campaigns, helping at events and raising awareness of the charity’s work across the local community.

To help people learn more about the opportunities available, Chesterfield Royal Hospital Charity is hosting a drop-in recruitment session at Chesterfield College on Monday, 8th June 2026, from 10:00am.

Jayne Stringfellow, Non-Executive Director and Chair of the Charity Committee, said:

“These volunteers will help us go even further – bringing warmth, energy and community spirit to our fundraising and events, and supporting the projects that make a real difference for patients and families.

“If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, this is a great opportunity to be part of something new and help shape how our charity supports care here at Chesterfield Royal Hospital.”

Emma Costello, Volunteer Co-ordinator, added:

“Volunteering has been such a positive experience. You feel part of something bigger, you meet lovely people, and you know the support you’re giving helps fund things that really matter for patients and families. We’re so grateful to our volunteers and this is especially exciting as we’re also in National Volunteers’ Week.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home